Creamy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini with Melted Cheddar Bliss

This Creamy Cajun Garlic Chicken Rotini is comfort food at its finest. Tender bites of seasoned chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce come together in one skillet for a dish that’s bold, cozy, and deeply satisfying. The Cajun spices add gentle heat and smoky depth, while cheddar and Parmesan melt into a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every twist of rotini. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels indulgent and restaurant-worthy.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 12 oz rotini pasta

Protein

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes

Aromatics and Seasoning

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Cooking and Garnish

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente.
   Drain well and set aside.
2. Season and cook the chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the cubed chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and a light pinch of salt.
   Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and fully cooked through.
   Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Build the garlic base
   In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly and add the minced garlic.
   Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. Create the creamy sauce
   Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Melt the cheeses
   Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing them to melt fully before adding more.
   Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
6. Combine everything
   Add the cooked rotini and the reserved chicken back into the skillet.
   Toss gently until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy Cajun cheese sauce.
7. Finish and serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips, Variations, and Storage

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness
• Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and color
• Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for a milder cheese profile
• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce

Pairings

• Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or crusty bread
• Roasted broccoli or green beans
• Sparkling water, iced tea, or a light white wine

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 560 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: American, Cajun-inspired